World Blood Donor Day 2024: Saving Lives One Donation at a Time
Each year on June 14th, people around the world unite to raise awareness for World Blood Donor Day (WBDD). A day that serves as a reminder of the essential role blood donors play in saving lives and improving health outcomes for individuals in need. Established by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2004, WBDD strives to promote awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and to extend gratitude to blood donors for their life-saving contributions.
The Importance of Giving Blood:
Blood donation is a key aspect of healthcare that directly affects patient care and medical emergencies across the globe. Consider these statistics:
· Every two seconds, someone needs blood.
· Blood transfusions save millions of lives each year.
· Donated blood supports the treatment and recovery of patients undergoing surgeries, trauma victims, cancer patients, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
The Benefits of Donating Blood:
Apart from the significant impact on others' lives, donating blood also provides health benefits to those donating, which can include:
· Reducing the risk of heart disease.
· Lowering cholesterol levels.
· Stimulating the production of new blood cells.
· Burning calories.
Most healthy adults can donate blood, although certain basic criteria must be met. Eligibility typically requires individuals to be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, and to meet specific weight requirements, usually at least 110lbs (pounds). Furthermore, donors must be in good health, and free from illnesses and infections. Abiding by these guidelines ensures the safety and effectiveness of the blood donation process.
There are various types of blood donations, each of which meets specific medical needs:
· Whole blood donation: This is the most common type of donation, where a pint of blood is collected.
· Platelet donation: Platelets are key for blood clotting and are often needed by cancer patients and those undergoing surgery.
· Plasma donation: Plasma, the liquid part of blood, is used to treat burn victims, shock patients, and those with blood clotting disorders.
How to Prepare Before Donating:
Before you donate blood, it's crucial to prepare yourself properly. This includes eating a healthy nutritious meal and staying hydrated to ensure your body is fuelled for the donation process. Getting a restful night's sleep is important, this will help you feel refreshed and ready on the day of donation. Also, it's advised that you do not consume alcohol or engage in strenuous exercise just before donating, as these activities can affect the quality of your donation. By following these steps, it will help to ensure a successful and safe blood donation experience.
In England, blood donation is managed by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT). Every year, approximately 2 million units of blood are transfused in England alone, saving countless lives. Please consider donating, the process of donating blood is safe, simple, and usually takes less than an hour.
To learn more about donating or to donate, click here!
Conclusion
On World Blood Donor Day 2024, and every day, we extend our gratitude to everyone who has donated blood worldwide. Your selfless act of donating blood makes a significant impact on the lives of others. Together, we are saving lives and building healthier communities.
Whether you're a regular donor or considering donating for the first time, your contribution matters. Join us in making a difference and saving lives through the power of blood donation.
Source*
World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int
NHS: https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/ & https://www.blood.co.uk/
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov
American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/
Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/
